Wesley Sneijder has been linked with an exit from Galatasaray (Picture: Getty)

Southampton boss Ronald Koeman has conceded there is no chance of the Saints making a move for Wesley Sneijder in the January transfer window, as they can’t afford him.

The south coast side have been linked with the Dutch international in recent days, with reports suggesting he is keen to quit Galatasaray in January.

But Koeman insists the deal is a non-starter due to the 30-year-old’s high wage demands.

‘I’m interested, but I know we can’t pay him,’ he said.

‘There’s nothing in it, and I know that because his agent is my agent.’

Manchester United have also long been linked with the midfielder, with Sir Alex Ferguson keen to sign him from Inter Milan several years ago.

Despite the fact that Ferguson has now moved upstairs at Old Trafford, current boss Louis van Gaal is still believed to be interested in a move as he looks to add quality and experience to his injury-hit squad in the New Year.

While it remains unclear whether United will make an offer for Sneijder, the path has now been left clear by Koeman.